Ancient Hands is proud to announce the addition of flute maker Jim Hale’s work to our selection of musical instruments! Jim is of Cherokee heritage, of the Long Hair clan from the Sequatchie Valley area of eastern Tennessee, where the “old ways” became a part of Jim’s life journey. The care, craftsmanship and traditional methods that contribute to the creation of each unique flute are apparent, as well as an expertise coming from degrees in both music and psychology.

You can check out Jim’s bio, the process of flute making, and the role of individuality in the musical experience to discover more about this incredible artist’s work. Jim sums it all up in The Story of the First Flute, an expression of tradition, music and the life journey.

Principal Artist and Production Manager Marty Haythorn won First Place in the three-dimensional art category, at the 28th Annual Tifton Love Affair Fine Arts Festival juried art competition, May 3-4 in Tifton, Georgia. Marty took home the Blue Ribbon in the category for all three-dimensional works, with his stunning contemporary piece entitled “Morning Star”.

The Love Affair Fine Art Festival in Tifton, Georgia is an annual celebration of performing and visual arts, including a juried competition.  The Love Affair includes an Arts Market at Fulwood Park, with nearly 50 artists offering their wares to some 25,000 attendees.

Regional artists submit a maximum of three works in various media categories, with awards for each category, overall two and three-dimensional art categories, and Best-In-Show. Marty has competed four times in recent years, with wins three years, including one Best-In-Show. Congratulations, Marty!